Head Chef Salary in Fort Collins, CO
Head Chefs in Fort Collins, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $27.00 per hour, translating to about $1,080.00 per week, $4,680.00 per month, and $56,160.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Fort Collins is growing steadily at about 10% per year, reflecting exciting opportunities and expansion within the local culinary and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Fort Collins, CO?
The salary of a Head Chef in Fort Collins varies based on experience, skills, and the establishment, but here is an overview of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.50 | $820.00 | $3,533.33 | $42,560.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.00 | $1,080.00 | $4,680.00 | $56,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.50 | $1,580.00 | $6,816.67 | $81,760.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Fort Collins Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on kitchen management and culinary creation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally based on salary wages rather than gratuities.
Head Chef Salary in Fort Collins, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn an average of around $28.30 per hour and approximately $58,864.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Fort Collins earn slightly less per hour at $27.00 but remain competitive with an annual salary close to the national figure at $56,160.00.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Collins for Head Chefs
When considering nearby neighborhoods, Head Chef salaries differ:
- Downtown Fort Collins: $28.50 per hour
- Midtown Fort Collins: $27.00 per hour
Head Chefs located in Downtown Fort Collins enjoy a higher hourly wage, reflecting perhaps the density of upscale dining establishments in that area.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Fort Collins?
Several factors affect how much a Head Chef can earn in Fort Collins:
- Experience and Culinary Expertise: Those with a strong background in gourmet cuisine or international cooking techniques tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Workplaces range from casual dining to upscale restaurants and hotels; fine dining venues usually offer higher pay.
- Leadership and Management Skills: Head Chefs who oversee large teams and kitchen operations are often compensated more generously.
- Accreditations and Certifications: Having certifications such as ServSafe Food Manager or Certified Executive Chef can boost salary potential.
- Business Size and Location: Larger establishments or those located in high-demand areas tend to offer better wages.
How To Become a Head Chef in Fort Collins
Becoming a Head Chef in Fort Collins involves advancing through culinary training, gaining experience, and acquiring certifications.
Some helpful programs and certifications include:
- Farm Fusion in the Kitchen offers hands-on cooking classes focusing on various cuisines and techniques to build culinary skills.
- Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center Cooking Classes provided by Colorado State University emphasize nutrition-focused cooking essential for modern Head Chefs.
- ServSafe Food Manager Certification ensures a solid knowledge of food safety practices and is often required for Head Chefs.
- Certified Executive Chef (CEC) certification by the American Culinary Federation highlights mastery in culinary expertise and kitchen management.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Fort Collins
Leading employers recruiting Head Chefs in Fort Collins include:
- Cambria Hotels & Suites
- Colorado State University
- C.B. & Potts
Establishments That Head Chefs in Fort Collins Work At
Head Chefs find opportunities in a variety of settings including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest salaries due to demanding culinary standards and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments require skilled chefs to manage large kitchens and diverse menus, typically with competitive pay.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Dining: Provide more accessible positions with slightly lower salary ranges.
- Catering Companies: Head Chefs may receive varied pay based on event size and frequency.
Compensation can vary significantly depending on the prestige and scale of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Collins for Head Chefs
If you find the Head Chef role appealing, you might also consider similar careers that share culinary responsibilities and management duties.
These include Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Kitchen Manager roles, each involving leadership and advanced culinary skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Fort Collins
Understanding local labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Head Chefs working in Fort Collins.
- Learn about Colorado state employment regulations on the official Colorado government website.
- For federal labor laws, including wage and hour standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.